Indications 

Maxalt MLT is a prescription medicine indicated for promptly treating migraines, with or without aura, in both adult and pediatric patients aged 6 to 17 years old. 

Classified as a triptan drug, Maxalt MLT constricts cerebral blood vessels, interrupts pain signals to the brain, and inhibits the release of specific natural compounds responsible for migraine-related symptoms such as pain, nausea, and discomfort. 

Uses and Dosage 

Before taking Maxalt MLT and with each prescription refill, carefully review its medication guide and patient information leaflet. If you have any questions or need further explanation, seek advice from your doctor or pharmacist. 

The dosage of Maxalt MLT is determined based on individual medical conditions, treatment response, age, concurrent medication usage, and weight (for children). 

Typically, this medication is taken as directed by the doctor at the onset of a migraine. It can be taken with or without food but taking it on an empty stomach may result in faster efficacy. 

To properly take this orally disintegrating tablet, follow these steps: 

1. Use dry hands to peel back the foil packaging of the tablet. 
2. Place the tablet directly on your tongue without breaking or crushing it and allow it to dissolve. 
3. Swallow the dissolved tablet with saliva; water or any other liquid is unnecessary. 
4. Avoid opening the foil packaging or removing the tablet until you are ready to take it. 

If your symptoms improve after taking Maxalt MLT but recur after 2 hours or more, a second tablet may be taken. However, if your symptoms do not improve, refrain from taking a second tablet and contact your doctor. Your doctor will advise the maximum number of tablets allowed within a 24-hour period. 

For optimal results, take this medication exactly as directed. Refrain from increasing or decreasing the dosage or frequency of intake beyond what is instructed on the package label or by your doctor. 

Taking Maxalt MLT more frequently or for an extended duration than recommended may potentially worsen your headaches or increase their frequency. 

Do not exceed 10 days of Maxalt MLT or any other headache medication usage per month. If you find the need to utilize this medication to address more than four headaches within one month, contact your doctor for further guidance. 

Side Effects 

Listed below are the potential adverse effects of Maxalt MLT. Inform your doctor if any of these symptoms last or worsen. 

Common Side Effects 

• Dizziness, drowsiness, or fatigue 
• A sensation of pain or pressure in the throat or chest 

Serious Side Effects 

• Sudden and severe stomach pain along with bloody diarrhea 
• Cold sensation or numbness in the feet and hands 
• Intense headache, blurred vision, and pulsating sensations in the neck or ears 
• Symptoms of a heart attack such as: 
  • Chest pain or pressure 
  • Pain radiating to the jaw or shoulder 
  • Nausea 
  • Sweating 
• Signs of elevated serotonin levels in the body: 
  • Restlessness 
  • Hallucinations 
  • Fever 
  • Sweating 
  • Tremors 
  • Rapid heartbeat 
  • Muscle stiffness 
  • Spasms 
  • Coordination difficulties 
  • Nausea 
  • Vomiting 
  • Diarrhea 
• Indications of a stroke: 
  • Abrupt numbness or weakness (especially on one side of the body) 
  • Sudden severe headache 
  • Slurred speech 
  • Problems with vision or balance 

Stop taking Maxalt MLT and call your doctor immediately if you experience any of the severe side effects above. 

Allergic Reactions 

Although rare, a severe allergic reaction to Maxalt MLT may occur. Promptly seek medical assistance if you observe any of the following symptoms: 

• Rash 
• Itching 
• Difficulty breathing 
• Severe dizziness 
• Facial, throat, or tongue swelling or itching 

This list does not contain all the potential side effects of Maxalt MLT. Should you experience any unlisted effects, notify your physician without delay. 

Cautions 

Before taking Maxalt MLT, inform your doctor and pharmacist if you have any known hypersensitivities, especially to rizatriptan, other medications, or any ingredients present in these orally disintegrating tablets. 

To ensure Maxalt MLT is safe for you, disclose to your physician your medical background, especially if you have a history of: 

• Blood circulation problems (e.g., in the legs, arms/hands, or stomach) 
• Certain types of headaches (hemiplegic or basilar migraine) 
• Heart problems (e.g., chest pain, irregular heartbeat, previous heart attack) 
• Liver disease 
• Seizure disorder 
• Stroke or transient ischemic attack (TIA) 

If you have a condition such as phenylketonuria (PKU) that necessitates restricting or avoiding aspartame (or phenylalanine) in your diet, consult your doctor or pharmacist to ensure the safe use of Maxalt MLT, as it may contain aspartame. 

Inform your doctor and pharmacist about all medications you use, including prescription/nonprescription drugs, vitamins, and herbal products, to prevent drug interaction with Maxalt MLT. 

To minimize the risk of serious side effects, space out your doses of Maxalt MLT and other medications containing ergotamine (like dihydroergotamine) or “triptan” drugs (such as sumatriptan, zolmitriptan) by at least 24 hours. 

If you are also taking drugs that boost serotonin levels, such as St. John’s wort, MDMA, or certain antidepressants like fluoxetine and venlafaxine, your risk of serotonin syndrome toxicity increases. Starting or increasing the dosage of these drugs may also heighten the risk. 

Maxalt MLT and MAO inhibitors can have a severe and potentially fatal drug interaction. Avoid taking any of the MAO inhibitors below during treatment with this medication: 

• Isocarboxazid 
• Linezolid 
• Metaxalone 
• Methylene blue 
• Moclobemide 
• Phenelzine 
• Procarbazine 
• Rasagiline 
• Safinamide 
• Selegiline 
• Tranylcypromine 

Refrain from taking most MAO inhibitors for two weeks before starting this medication and consult with your doctor regarding when to begin or discontinue taking Maxalt MLT. 

Maxalt MLT can cause drowsiness. Refrain from driving or using machinery until you are aware of its effects on you. 

Maxalt-MLT has the potential to increase blood pressure to hazardous levels. Frequent monitoring of blood pressure is necessary during its use. Long-term usage may require electrocardiograph (ECG) testing to assess heart function. 

The likelihood of heart disease, liver disease, and high blood pressure rises as individuals age. Older adults may exhibit heightened sensitivity to the side effects of this medication, particularly elevated blood pressure and heart-related issues. 

The use of Maxalt MLT during pregnancy should only be considered if the potential benefits outweigh the potential risks to the fetus. Consult your doctor before taking this medication. 

The transfer of rizatriptan into breast milk is not known. Prior to breastfeeding, consult with your doctor for guidance.